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A long catalogue of deterioration and damage has led to the closure of Lorca’s Casa Grande hotel, a treasured historic building situated in the pretty village of Coy which dates back to the 18th century.

 

Situated midway between the city of Lorca to the south and Bullas, Caravaca de la Cruz and Cehegín to the north, the tiny district of Coy is famous for its grapes, olives, almonds and walnuts, which have been farmed in the area for generations. The Casa Grande were probably the best known lodgings in the region and ideal for guests keen to visit Coy’s ancient winery and local ethnographic museum.

 

Sadly, engineers have now found multiple problems with the building, not only aesthetic but structural issues too that compromise safety and have had no choice but to shut the hotel down.

 

“The damage is extensive and the most important thing is to safeguard the integrity of visitors who may be interested in coming and spending the night at the shelter; The conditions are not ideal, and now we must evaluate the next steps for a possible reform, since the investment for its execution is very important,” explained Lorca City Councillor for Tourism, Santiago Parra Soriano.

 

The catalogue of damages includes water leaks in several rooms; plaster falling off walls; ceilings crumbling; and woodworm destroying carpentry throughout, which has weakened the entire building. So bad is the deterioration that the whole roof needs to be dismantled.

 

“Already in 2015, the Casa Grande hostel was involved in repair work due to the consequences suffered after the earthquake of May 2011, which fundamentally affected the roof and caused detachments, cracks and discoloration; but now the jobs and works that must be faced are of greater significance,” the councillor added.

 

The manor house was particularly striking because it maintained so many original 18th century features. Operating as a hostel it offered visitors more than 60 beds, including an independent country house on the first floor, complete with a restaurant, meeting room, fireplace and central heating.

 

The renovation could cost in excess of 200,000 euros but Lorca City Council is determined to come up with the funds and ensure that the conservation works on Casa Grande are started as soon as possible so that the hotel can be reopened.

 

 

Image: Ayuntamiento de Lorca